The occurrence of postpartum post-traumatic stress disorder among women in Johannesburg metropolitan clinics

Abstract

Background: Childbirth has been associated with post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) in women, affecting mother–child bonding, foetal growth, cognitive development and marital relationships. However, there is a dearth of literature on postpartum PTSD in Africa. Aim: The study aimed to investigate the occurrence of postpartum PTSD among women. Setting: The study was conducted within Johannesburg metropolitan clinics. Methods: The study included 88 women attending postnatal clinics in the metropolitan area. A questionnaire was used to collect data on their characteristics, obstetric and neonatal factors and perceived social support. The City Birth Trauma Scale was used to screen for postpartum PTSD symptoms. Data were analysed using R software with a significance level of 0.05. Results: Almost half of the participants (48.9%) perceived their most recent childbirth as a traumatic event. One participant (1.1%; 95% CI: 0.0003–0.06) endorsed all symptoms required to diagnose PTSD. Endorsing childbirth as a traumatic event was significantly associated with reporting intrusion and/or re-experiencing symptoms (OR = 3.7) and avoidance symptoms (OR = 3.3). There was no association between the mode of childbirth and PTSD symptom scores. There is no association between the presence or absence of neonatal complications and PTSD symptom scores. Conclusion: Although the occurrence was relatively low, our findings highlight the importance of routine screening and early intervention in maternal health services. Contribution: There is need for further research to inform culturally relevant prevention and treatment strategies.